Annual 9/11 fundraiser brings community together
By Carin R. Kirkegaard; courtesy photo
First responders gather on the patio of Berg Haus for the annual community 9/11 fundraising event.
The fourth annual 9/11 Eat for a Cause community fundraiser looked a little different this year. Traditionally held at Pino’s Italian Kitchen & Bar (Pino’s), this year Castle Pines newest eating establishment, Berg Haus joined in to honor and celebrate first responders, military and frontline workers and to “Never Forget.”
Event founder and owner of Pino’s, Joe Sabia, reached out to fellow businessman, Bruce Riggenberg of Berg Haus to see if he would like to co-sponsor the event. In years past, Pino’s has been bursting with more than 400 people turning out in support. Riggenberg jumped at the chance, mindful of social distancing guidelines.
“It is such a great cause,” said Riggenberg. “We wanted to be a part of Joe’s passion and help to support a great community event. As residents who live here and as local business owners, it is important to us to provide a venue and an opportunity for residents to come together,” Riggenberg continued.
The Stephen Siller Tunnel to Tower Foundation is the designated recipient for this year’s fundraising proceeds. Earlier in the year, in light of the global pandemic, the foundation widened its philanthropic scope to also include frontline health care workers by providing personal protective equipment and assuming mortgage payments for families who have lost loved ones.
“Tunnel to Towers was born out of 9/11, but today their reach includes all first responders, military and now frontline workers in the entire country,” commented Sabia.
Both Pino’s and Berg Haus donated 10% of total sales from the day, and with other donations the event raised nearly $8,000.
One thing that didn’t change with this year’s celebration was the community response – neighbors rolling up their sleeves, bussing tables and washing dishes. More importantly, when a group of firemen walked into Berg Haus with Sabia, the place erupted in cheers.
